Pages: 232
Published: 13th April 2021
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Content warnings: Violence/injury detail, misognyny
I recently took part in the blog tour for this book, but was not able to read it at the time. Now I have, and I am excited to share my review! Thank you very much to Dave @ The Write Reads and Kristin Ward – two genuinely wonderful people – for allowing me to access a free electronic copy. This is the first is a four-book series.
The people of Felmore talk of Dorcha Wood in whispers, if they speak of it at all, fearing the wrath of the Cú-Síth should their words be carried on the wind. Those murdering beasts still roam the darkness of the forest, the last remnants of the cursed Aos Sí, a race of elves, long since vanished from the world.
But to Fiadh, it is home. Haven. A forest whose secrets become known only when it chooses to reveal them. Her life is one of balance until the outside world shatters it.
From the moment Fiadh set eyes on Gideon, the peaceful rhythm of her life was lost. As a new path unfolds, Fiadh confronts the reality of old hatreds, the consequences of things hidden, and the truth of who she really is.
This is a story that immerses you deep within the realm of Celtic mythology, using a multitude of medieval inspirations to create something vivid and distinctly mystical. Told at a fast pace and subtly exploring a handful of interesting themes such as prejudice and the sense of belonging, it generates a captivating atmosphere that is present from start to finish.
The world building is right at the very heart of the book and is undoubtedly its biggest strength, so rich is its attention to detail. There is clearly a certain amount of love in the way the settings are described, especially through the eyes of the main character Fiadh. The rugged beauty of Dorcha Wood that is juxtaposed against the violent battle scenes that take place in its vicinity; the animals with whom Fiadh shares a deep connection and understanding – it all leaves an impression on the reader.
Along with the animals and Fiadh’s unique abilities, which are bound to be explored more later in the series, there are other fascinating creatures to behold. The Cú-Síth are mysterious and ruthless, staunch in their protection of Fiadh although as yet it is unclear what their motives truly are, while we only see glimpses of the elven Aos Si and the lethal power they possess.
The plot moves forward very quickly and is perhaps slightly rushed in places, but otherwise it is an exciting read. As the relationship between Fiadh and Gideon develops, they are quite protective of each other but there is also a simmering tension as she tries to hide the extent of her powers from him, building up to an eventful ending. Aside from one aspect that I found a bit confusing, this ending impressively sets up the sequel.
Fiadh is a very likeable character, possessing a natural kindness and a heartwarming affinity towards her Dorcha Wood. She is developed well as her inherent innocence is gradually prised away by witnessing the cruelty of others and the killings made by the Cú-Síth for the sake of her protection. Gideon is more complex, thoughtful and at times compassionate, yet also stubborn to a fault. The other characters were not especially memorable, though there is definitely much more to discover about Xander.
Overall, it is a highly engaging and mostly enjoyable read. The concepts are well executed and show an original approach towards a kind of folklore that we do not often see depicted in literature, at the same time making it easy to follow for its primarily young adult audience. Fiadh is a marvellous character, but it is the mythology and the author’s trademark celebration of nature that shines most brightly.
A nice quick read which I rather enjoyed. One or two imperfections here and there, but I was rooting for Fiadh throughout and was totally transported away by the setting.
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5
*I received a free electronic
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